Light therapy for eyelash growth

ABSTRACT

Systems, methods, and devices for promoting eyelash hair growth includes an energy transducer, positionable proximate the eyelid, configured to provide light energy to a user&#39;s eyelids at an output wavelength suitable for stimulating eyelash hair growth, and a scleral shield, positionable inside of the eyelid, to protect the eye from the light energy. The device may be powered by an internal power source, such as a rechargeable battery or disposable batteries, or by an external power source, such as a plug used in connection with an AC outlet. In use, the eyelid is positioned between the energy transducer and the scleral shield, and the light energy from the energy transducer is applied to the eyelash region of the eyelid to promote eyelash hair growth.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/198,617 filed Jun. 30, 2016. This application is related to U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/265,228 filed Apr. 29, 2014 and entitled“Systems and Methods for the Treatment of Eye Conditions”, which claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/817,757, filed Apr.30, 2013, which are incorporated herein by reference, and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/529,102 and entitled “Systems and Methods forthe Treatment of Eye Conditions”, which is also incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to medical devices and methods of usingthe same. More particularly, the disclosure relates to systems, methods,and apparatus used to treat eyelashes and surrounding tissue.

Eyelashes grow at the edge of the eyelid and help filter out foreignmatter, including dust and debris, and prevent the foreign matter fromgetting into the eye. An eyelash is sensitive to being touched, thusproviding a warning that an object may be too close to the eye. Manypeople lose their eyelashes, a condition called madarosis. There arenumerous conditions that can result in eyelash loss, includingophthalmological conditions, such as blepharitis, dermatologicconditions, Nutritional defects, Infections, Trauma, Drugs/Medications,Genetics, and other diseases.

A blepharitis attack of eyelids repeatedly can cause eyelash loss. Rcauses swelling and itching on the eyelid due to excessive bacteriagrowth in tiny oil glands. Antibiotics are typically used to combat thebacterial infection. Blepharitis can include anterior blepharitis orposterior blepharitis. Anterior blepharitis is usually eitherstaphylococcal or seborrhoeic, and posterior blepharitis refers to anyof the varieties of meibomian gland dysfunction. The symptoms ofanterior blepharitis include itching, burning, foreign body sensation,photophobia, and tearing. Posterior blepharitis is also known asmeibomian gland dysfunction and is characterized by either excessivefoam in the tear film in the hypersecretory type, or plugging of themeibomian orifices in the obstructive type. Expression of the secretionsreveals a turbid or toothpaste-like material. If there is spilloverinflammation of the anterior lid margin, there may be a loss ofeyelashes.

A need exists for improved methods and devices to diagnose and treateyelash loss.

SUMMARY

Embodiments described herein may meet one or more of the needsidentified above and may overcome one or more of the shortcomings ofcurrent eyelash treatment methods. Various implementations of systems,methods, and devices within the scope of the appended claims each haveseveral aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for thedesirable attributes described herein. Without limiting the scope of theappended claims, some prominent features are described herein.

The present application relates generally to treatment systems, methods,and devices used to treat eyelids, in particular, the eyelid marginwhere the eyelashes grow. Details of one or more implementations of thesubject matter described in this specification are set forth in theaccompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,embodiments, and advantages will become apparent from the description,the drawings, and the claims.

One aspect of this disclosure provides a device for stimulating and/orpromoting eyelash growth. In various embodiments, the device includes anenergy transducer configured to provide light energy at one or morewavelengths and a scleral shield. When the eyelid is positioned betweenthe energy transducer and the scleral shield, the light energy from theenergy transducer is directed to the eyelid margin to provide lightenergy at an output wavelength suitable for stimulating and/or promoteeyelash hair growth.

An additional aspect of the disclosure provides a method for promotingeyelash growth. The method includes positioning an energy transducerproximate an eyelash region of the eyelid, the energy transducerconfigured to provide light energy at one or more wavelengths, andpositioning a scleral shield between the energy transducer and eyeball,the scleral shield being made of, or coated with, a light energyblocking material. The method also includes directing light energy fromthe energy transducer toward the eyelash region at a first wavelengthsuitable for stimulating and/or promoting eyelash hair growth; andblocking any light energy directed toward the eyeball with the scleralshield to protect the eyeball from the light energy.

In some embodiments, the energy transducer is further configured toprovide light energy at a second wavelength selected to treat bacteria.In some embodiments, the energy transducer is further configured toprovide light energy at a third wavelength selected to be absorbed bythe eyelid tissue, and thereby heat the eyelid tissue. The firstwavelength may be in the range of about (without limitation) 450-700 nm,the second wavelength may be in the range of about (without limitation)400-450 nm and the third wavelength may be in the range of about(without limitation) 700-1000 nm.

In some embodiments, the energy transducer may include at least one ofan LED, laser, incandescent lamp, xenon lamp, halogen lamp, luminescentlamp, high-intensity discharge lamp, and gas discharge lamp.

Some embodiments of the device further include one or more componentsselected from the group consisting of: a display or dashboard configuredto display the device status; a battery configured to power the devicecomponents; battery charging means; a controller; printed circuit board;and communication circuitry between scleral shield and energytransducer.

Some embodiments of the device further include a safety featureelectrically coupled to the energy transducer configured to prevent orinterrupt the light energy from the energy transducer if the if thescleral shield and associated assembly are not properly attached to, andaligned with, the device.

Additionally, or alternatively, some embodiments of the device furtherinclude a timer operatively coupled to the energy transducer andconfigured to shut off the energy transducer after a predetermined time.

Other features and advantages should be apparent from the followingdescription of various implementations, which illustrate, by way ofexample, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned aspects, as well as other features, aspects, andadvantages of the present technology will now be described in connectionwith various embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.The illustrated embodiments, however, are merely examples and are notintended to be limiting. Throughout the drawings, similar symbolstypically identify similar components, unless context dictatesotherwise. Note that the relative dimensions of the following figuresmay not be drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional diagram of a mammalian eye system 10.

FIG. 2A is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2B is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device having a scleral shield.

FIG. 2C is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device having attached scleral shields.

FIG. 3A is a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of aneyelash treatment device having a scleral shield.

FIG. 3B is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of an eyediagnostic and treatment device having attached scleral shields.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device.

FIG. 5 is a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device, which includes an eyelash treatment device and ascleral shield.

FIG. 6 is a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of an eyetreatment system, which includes an eyelash treatment device and ascleral shield.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing one embodiment of a method for promotingeyelash growth using light energy.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. Inthe drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodimentsdescribed in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are notmeant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and otherchanges may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of thesubject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that theaspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, andillustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, anddesigned in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which areexplicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure.It will be understood by those within the art that if a specific numberof a claim element is intended, such intent will be explicitly recitedin the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent ispresent. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and“the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless thecontext clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term “and/or”includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associatedlisted items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,”“comprising,” “have,” “having,” “includes,” and “including,” when usedin this specification, specify the presence of stated features,integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do notpreclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. Expressions such as “at least one of,” when preceding a list ofelements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify theindividual elements of the list.

To assist in the description of the devices and methods describedherein, some relational and directional terms are used. “Connected” and“coupled,” and variations thereof, as used herein include directconnections, such as being contiguously formed with, or glued, orotherwise attached directly to, on, within, etc. another element, aswell as indirect connections where one or more elements are disposedbetween the connected elements. “Connected” and “coupled” may refer to apermanent or non-permanent (i.e., removable) connection.

“Secured” and variations thereof as used herein include methods by whichan element is directly secured to another element, such as being glued,screwed, or otherwise fastened directly to, on, within, etc. anotherelement, as well as indirect means of securing two elements togetherwhere one or more elements are disposed between the secured elements.

“Proximal” and “distal” are relational terms used herein to describeposition from the perspective of a medical professional treating apatient. For example, as compared to “distal,” the term “proximal”refers to a position that is located more closely to the medicalprofessional, while the distal end is located more closely to thepatient during treatment. For example, the distal ends of the devicesdisclosed herein oppose the proximal ends of the same devices, and thedistal end of a device often includes, for example, the end configuredfor placement against the eyelid of a patient.

“Transducer” is a term used herein to describe an element which receivesone form of energy and transforms it into another. For example, a lightsource may receive electrical energy and produce light energy. Likewise,an ultrasonic transducer may receive electrical energy and produceultrasonic energy.

“Light” as used herein refers not only to energy in the visible lightspectrum, but also to energy in the infrared and ultraviolet portions ofthe electromagnetic energy spectrum.

“Waveguide” as used herein refers to any means of influencing thepropagation, distribution or trajectory of electromagnetic energy suchas light, ultrasonic energy and radio frequency energy. As definedherein, optical elements such as diffractors, refractors, diffusers andthe like are included in this broad definition of a waveguide.

“Optical path length” is used herein to describe the length of the path(for example, within a tissue section) through which energy travels.

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to ophthalmic devices, systems, andmethods. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein can be usedto for stimulating and/or promoting eyelash growth. FIG. 1 is across-sectional diagram of a mammalian eye system 10, which includes aneyeball 20 and surrounding eyelid anatomy. As recited within thisdisclosure and as identified in FIG. 1, the “central ocular axis” 30 ofthe eye is the central axis running through the center of the cornea 22,iris 24, pupil 25, lens 26, and vitreous body 28 of the eyeball 20. Eyesystem 10 includes an upper eyelid 12, a lower eyelid 14, and eyelashes16. Within the tissue of each eyelid 12, 14, there are meibomian glands18 each having a duct or orifice 19. In healthy eye systems 10, themeibomian glands 18 secrete out of ducts 19 a substance called meibum,comprised primarily of lipids and proteins. The meibum forms part of thetear film that covers the surface of the eyeball 20.

FIG. 2A is a schematic block diagram of an example eyelash treatmentdevice 100 according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 2A, thedepicted device 100 includes a power source module 110, an energytransducer module 120, and an optional energy waveguide module 130,which may be functionally and/or physically connected to one another. Insome embodiments, the energy transducer module 120 and energy waveguidemodule 130 may be combined in a single unit, such as within a singlehousing for example.

The power source module 110 of various embodiments provides energy tothe energy transducer module 120. The power source module 110 mayinclude any structure configured for delivering power to one or moreother components of the eyelash treatment device 100. In someembodiments, the power source module 110 includes a disposable battery,a rechargeable battery, a solar cell, a power transforming module suchas a power supply or power converter, or a power transfer mechanism suchas a cord, outlet, or plug configured to receive alternating current ordirect current from an external source.

The energy transducer module 120 may include one or more energytransducers configured to emit one or more forms or type of energy. Forexample, as described in more detail below, in some embodiments, theenergy transducers emit photonic, acoustic, radio frequency, electrical,magnetic, electro-magnetic, vibrational, infrared or ultrasonic energy.In some embodiments, the transducer module 120 generates multiple typesof energy simultaneously or in a predetermined order.

FIGS. 2B and 2C show the eyelash treatment device 100 with optionalenergy waveguide module 130 that includes one or more structuresconfigured to control or focus the direction of energy emission from theenergy transducers and a scleral shield 300 made of light energyblocking material or have a light energy blocking surface on a frontface 302 to block light energy from entering the eyeball duringtreatment. The waveguide module 130 may include one or more reflectors,refractors, diffractors, or diffusers (described in more detail below)configured to focus photonic energy toward a desired region, or otherstructures for configuring and directing the energy emission, such asultrasonic horns or fiber optics.

In some embodiments, the transducer module 120 may generate multipletypes of energy simultaneously, such as photonic, acoustic, radiofrequency, electrical, magnetic, electro-magnetic, vibrational, infraredor ultrasonic energy. For example, a first energy may treat the eyelashat the eyelid margin while a second energy may treat for bacteria on theeyelid.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2C is similar to the embodiment shown inFIG. 2B except there are two scleral shields 300. The eyelid is placedwithin the scleral shields 300 during eyelash treatment.

The eyelash treatment device 200 of FIGS. 3A and 3B may include any orall of the features described in relation to other embodiments presentedherein. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the energy transducermodule 120 is an infrared LED array. However, in other embodiments,including other embodiments configured to apply energy to one eyelid ata time, the energy transducer module 120 may include an LED emittinglight in the visible light spectrum, a laser, an incandescent lamp, axenon lamp, a halogen lamp, a luminescent lamp, a high-intensitydischarge lamp, or a gas discharge lamp. The eyelash treatment device200 may further include a scleral shield 300 made of light energyblocking material or have a light energy blocking surface on a frontface 302 to block light energy from entering the eyeball duringtreatment. The scleral shield 300 may also incorporate one or moretemperature sensors. The eyelash treatment device 200 of FIGS. 3A and 3Bmay also include a power source module 110 and optionally a controller212, along with other components as described in relation to variousembodiments presented herein. Additionally, the eyelash treatment device200 includes a reflector 210. In the depicted embodiment, the reflector210 is formed of a barrel and backplate, which together surround theenergy transducer module 120 in all but a distal direction.

In certain embodiments having a controller 212, the controller 212 canreceive input instructions from a user (for example, through a userinterface device, such as a button, switch, touch screen, voicecommands, from another module or device, such as a smartphone) to emitlight from the energy transducer module 120. Upon receipt of the userinput instructions, the controller 212 can instruct the power sourcemodule 110 to deliver energy to or from the energy transducer module120.

The energy transducer module 120 can be configured to emit light of theappropriate wavelength necessary for the desired treatment. Thetreatments may include one or more of the following: promoting eyelashgrowth by the illuminating the eyelid margins, antibacterial treatmentto kill bacteria in the eye system 10, and heating the meibomian glandof eyelids 12, 14. Note that the descriptions of the various devicesherein (including the eyelash treatment device 200) are exemplary, andnot limiting. Thus, for example, while this detailed descriptionmentions particular elements and circuitry having particular functions,this does not limit the disclosure to those particular embodiments. Forexample, while LEDs are mentioned, other light sources, such asincandescent, xenon, halogen, high-intensity discharge, cold cathodetube, fluorescent, laser and other light sources or energy sources canbe used.

For some embodiments, it is desirable to use light with a wavelengthselected to: a) stimulate and/or promote eyelash growth at the eyelashregion of an eyelid, b) reduce or minimize the amount of light thatpenetrates beyond the eyelash region, and c) reduce or minimize theamount of heating that occurs at the surface of the eyelid. For example,in some embodiments, the energy transducer 120 can emit light having awavelength in the range of about 450-700 nm. Furthermore, emittingwavelengths within this portion of the light spectrum avoids theundesired portion of the electromagnetic spectrum for embodiments thatdo not incorporate a scleral shield, including ultraviolet, infrared,and blue.

In some embodiments, the energy transducer is further configured toprovide light energy at a second wavelength selected to treat bacteria.In some embodiments, the energy transducer is further configured toprovide light energy at a third wavelength selected to be absorbed bythe eyelid tissue, and thereby heat the eyelid tissue. The firstwavelength may be in the range of about (without limitation) 450-700 nm,the second wavelength may be in the range of about 400-450 nm and thethird wavelength may be in the range of about 700-1000 nm.

While a controller 212 and energy transducer 120 are mentioned, it willbe understood that the controller could be integrated with drivercircuitry for the light source or circuitry for a solid-state or otherpower supply, or other configurations could be used to provide thedesired result. Further, some or all of the functions described as beinghandled by, or controlled by, controller 212, may be implemented usingdiscrete logic or analog circuitry, or a combination thereof.

Moreover, although the various embodiments such as device 200 areillustrated schematically, they can be produced in a variety of handheldor stationary configurations with a housing with optional grippingsurfaces, manipulation and control structures, and the like.

In one embodiment, a handheld light therapy device 200 includes ahousing 202, an energy transducer module 120 positioned at a distal endof the housing, a power source module coupled to the energy transducermodule, a controller 212 coupled to the power source module, and a userinterface controller coupled to the controller configured to provideuser input to the controller to instruct the power source module todeliver energy to or from the energy transducer module. Examples of auser interface include a button, switch, touch screen or voice commands.The user interface may be incorporated into the device, it may belocated on another module or device in communication with the handheldlight therapy device 200, such as a smartphone that wirelesslycommunicates with the controller.

The handheld light therapy device 200 further includes a scleral shield300 configured to block light energy toward the eyeball, the scleralshield being positioned between the energy transducer and the eyeball.In use, the eyelash region is positioned in a gap between the energytransducer and the scleral shield and the energy transducer isinstructed to provide light energy 211 at a first wavelength to theeyelash region, and the scleral shield blocks and/or protects theeyeball from the light energy.

It is desirable to use light with a wavelength selected to stimulateand/or promote eyelash growth at the eyelash region of an eyelid. Forexample, in some embodiments, the energy transducer 120 can emit lighthaving a wavelength in the range of about 450-700 nm. In someembodiments, the energy transducer is further configured to providelight energy at a second wavelength selected to treat bacteria, forexample in the range of about 400-450 nm. In some embodiments, theenergy transducer is further configured to provide light energy at athird wavelength selected to be absorbed by the eyelid tissue, andthereby heat the eyelid tissue, for example, in the range of about700-1000 nm.

In some embodiments, the handheld light therapy device 200 may include adisplay or dashboard configured to display the device status. Thedisplay or dashboard may be on the device, such as on the housing, orthe display or dashboard may be on a separate device, such as anothermodule or device, or a smartphone in wireless communication. Thehandheld light therapy device 200 may also use a power cord or a batteryconfigured to power the device components and battery charging means.

The handheld light therapy device 200 may also include a safety featureelectrically coupled to the energy transducer prevents or interrupts thelight energy from occurring if the scleral shield is not in position toprotect the eyeball. In some embodiments, the safety feature may includesensors to make sure that a protective scleral shield 300 is in thecorrect position prior to turning on an energy transducer module 120,thus preventing damage to the eye system 10, sensors for preventingundesired activation of the device, sensors monitoring the delivery ofenergy to the patient, or sensors for preventing overheating of theskin. In some embodiments, the safety feature may include safety warningapparatus to let the patient know of an unsafe condition, and caninclude a flashing light, a flashing warning, a sound warning beep, apicture, a vibration pattern, or words indicative of the potential foror existence of an unsafe condition.

The devices described herein can be designed for use in a plurality ofsettings, including in-home use and use within an eye careprofessional's office, a health clinic, or other healthcare facility.

The eyelash treatment device 200 of various embodiments may also includeone or more thermal management structures configured to cool at least aportion of the device. In some embodiments, the thermal managementstructures are provided to manage the heat of the energy transducermodule 120 and prevent the device 200 from overheating. Additionally, oralternatively, in some embodiments, the thermal management structuresare provided to cool a surface of the eyelid to limit discomfort andavoid injury to the eyelid tissue during treatment. In FIG. 3A, forexample, the eyelash treatment device 200 includes a thermal managementstructure 220 (shown as a finned heat sink), a thermoelectric (Peltier)module 224, and one or more thermally conductive surfaces that arepassively or actively cooled. In some embodiments, a passive heat sinkmay be provided as an adequate thermal management structure 220 todissipate heat from the energy transducer module 120 into thesurrounding environment without the need for a thermoelectric module224. Some embodiments include a thermoelectric module 224 or other typeof cooler (such as a compact vapor-compression cooler) designed to coolthe energy transducer module 120 by transferring heat directionally awayfrom the energy transmission surface 140. In FIG. 3A, the thermoelectricmodule 224 and thermal management structure 220 are coupled such thatthe thermoelectric module 224 pumps heat away from the energy transducermodule 120 towards thermal management structure 220 for dissipation.

The embodiment of FIG. 3B is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3A exceptthere are two scleral shields 300. The eyelid is placed within thescleral shields 300 during eyelash treatment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of an eyelashtreatment device. The eyelash treatment device 200 shown in FIG. 4 ispositioned adjacent to an eyeball 20 to stimulate and/or promote eyelashgrowth at the eyelash region 12 a, 14 a. For simplicity, sensitive eyestructures such as the cornea, iris, pupil lens, and adjacent elementsare depicted as a single element called anterior eye structures 27. Theeyelash treatment device 200 may include any or all of the featuresdescribed in relation to other embodiments presented herein, along withadditional components useful in operation of the eyelash treatmentdevice 200. The eyelash treatment device 200 can include a power sourcemodule 110, a controller 212, an energy transducer module 120, an energywaveguide in the form of reflector 210, and an energy transmissionsurface 140. Each of these components, either alone, or in combinationwith other components (either shown herein or not disclosed) cancorrespond or be part of the modules described in relation to FIGS.2A-2C and 3A-3B. The components of the eyelash treatment device 200 canbe contained in a housing 202. While not shown in the figures, some ofthe embodiments of the treatment device 200 may also include aconsumable portion and/or a scleral shield 300.

The energy transducer module 120 can include a lens 208 that can be usedin conjunction with the LED emitter 207 or other electromagnetic energysource to direct the energy to the eyelid at a desired angle or in adesired pattern, at a desired intensity.

The energy transmission surface 140 may be configured to direct energygenerated by the energy transducer module 120 toward a desired region.The energy transmission surface 140 may include one or more lensesconfigured to focus energy generated by the transducer module 120. Theenergy transmission surface 140 may contact the surface of the eyelid12, 14. In some embodiments, at least a portion of energy transmissionsurface 140 may be configured as a single-use cover element.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic side plan view of another embodiment of aneyelash treatment device 200. The embodiment of the eyelash treatmentdevice 200 may contain components similar to those shown in FIG. 4,including the power source module 110 and the controller 212, thoughsuch components are not shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 provides a differentconfiguration for the energy transducer module 120 in order to focus andcontrol the direction of the light beams 211. In some embodiments, theeyelash treatment device 200 can include multiple energy transducermodules 120. Having separate energy transducer modules 120 a, 120 bpositioned separately in the eyelash treatment device 200 reduces theamount of light that may be directed towards sensitive anterior eyestructures 27 along the central ocular axis 30.

As depicted in FIG. 5, the upper and lower energy transducer modules 120can be tilted at an angle, each having a central optical axis directedsubstantially at an oblique angle to the surface of each eyelid. In someembodiments, the upper and lower energy transducer modules 120 can haveother directional orientations. For example, in some embodiments, theupper and lower energy transducer modules 120 can be positioned suchthat each central optical axis of the illumination sources issubstantially horizontal. As such, the light beams 211 transmitted fromthe energy transducer modules 120 configured in this way can travelhorizontally from the energy transducer modules 120 to the energytransmission surface 140 and may then be refracted, diffracted, orreflected at an angle toward the treatment tissue, in a manner thatminimizing the proportion of light that reaches the sensitive anterioreye structures 27.

FIG. 6 is a schematic side plan view of an eyelash treatment device 200,similar to the eyelash treatment device 200 depicted in FIG. 5. Alsoshown in FIG. 6 is a scleral shield 300, which, in conjunction with theeyelash treatment device 200, can provide a system of treating thetarget tissue with increased safety and efficacy. The scleral shield 300can be positioned under eyelids 12, 14 and adjacent to the patient'seyeball 20 to cover sensitive anterior eye structures 27. For example,the scleral shield may be positioned (referring to FIG. 1) over thesclera 21 and cornea 22 and may also provide protection to otherinternal anatomy of the eye such as the iris 24, pupil 25, lens 25, andother light sensitive anatomy of the eye system 10.

Referring back to FIG. 6, the scleral shield 300 may be of similar discshape as a contact lens, or it may be substantially larger to cover theentire cornea and optionally at least some of the sclera (as in the caseof a conventional corneal shield), or it may have a partial disc orpaddle shape, similar to the under-lid portion of a Mastrota paddle.Shield 300 may be positioned in the eye prior to treatment with theeyelash treatment device 200, or it may be integral with device 200, andtherefore placed in the eye or under the lid during the treatment.Though the scleral shield 300 is shown in FIG. 6 to be used in theconjunction with the embodiment of the eyelash treatment device 200described in relation to FIG. 5, it will be appreciated by the skilledartisan that the scleral shield 300 can be used in conjunction with anyof the embodiments of the eyelash treatment device 200 disclosed hereinto create a system for safe and efficacious treatment of eye disorders.

It will be further appreciated that the scleral shield 300 may includefeatures which provide even more benefits to the device. For example,the scleral shield 300 of some embodiments is configured to reflectenergy away from the eyeball and toward the inner eyelids, providingheating to the inner eyelids. In some embodiments, the scleral shield300 may be made of, or coated with, a light energy blocking material.

In some embodiments, an illumination source emitting blue or violetlight in the range of 400-450 nm may be used to reduce and/or eliminatebacteria in the eye system 10. It is known that exposure to visiblelight, more specifically, blue or violet light wavelengths, causesinactivation of certain bacterial species. Common bacteria include S.aureus, S. epidermidis, B. oleronius, and P. acnes. In selectingwavelengths in the range of 400-450 nm, a plurality of considerationsmay be taken into account. For example, it is important that theemitting source (LED) does not emit a significant amount of energy belowabout 400 nm, which is in the UVA spectrum and can be associated withskin cancer.

In another embodiment utilizing LEDs as an illumination source, the LEDemitter 207 can include one or more multi-spectral LEDs or multiple LEDsto emit light of differing or the same wavelength from each LED. In someembodiments, each LED of the LED emitter 207 is configured to emit lightof a different wavelength. The LED emitter 207 can emit the light fromeach differently colored LED either consecutively or simultaneously. Forexample, in some embodiments, the LED emitter 207 can include a red,green, blue (RGB) LED system, or other multi-spectral LED system, toemit light of various wavelengths in the visible light spectrum and IRspectrum. In some embodiments, the LEDs of the LED emitter 207 can beconfigured to operate simultaneously to emit white light. Alternatively,in some embodiments, the user can select the wavelength of light to beemitted from the multi-spectral LEDs. Further, an LED with using aspecial phosphorescent coating may be fabricated in order to produce themost efficient output spectrum relative to input power.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing one embodiment of a method for promotingeyelash growth using light energy. The method starts by positioning anenergy transducer providing light energy at a first wavelength selectedto proximate eyelash growth. For example, a suitable wavelength may bein the range of about 450-700 nm for eyelash growth, but the presentinvention is not limited to this range. Next a scleral shield ispositioned between the energy transducer and eyeball, the scleral shieldbeing made of, or coated with, a light energy blocking material. Lightenergy is then directed from the energy transducer toward the eyelashregion at a first wavelength suitable for stimulating and/or promotingeyelash hair growth. The scleral shield blocks light energy directedtoward the eyeball to protect the eyeball from the light energy

In some embodiments, the energy transducer may also provide light energyat a second wavelength selected to treat bacteria, for example, asuitable wavelength may be in the range of 400-450 nm. In still otherembodiments, the energy transducer may also provide light energy at athird wavelength to soften or melt meibum within meibomian glands, forexample, a suitable wavelength may be in the range of about 700-1000 nm.These wavelengths are only examples and the invention is not limited tothese ranges.

Patient safety and comfort are important considerations in the presentdevice and method. Safety sensors and warnings can thus advantageouslybe incorporated into the device. These include sensors to make sure thata protective scleral shield 300 is in the correct position prior toturning on an energy transducer module 120, thus preventing damage tothe eye system 10, sensors for preventing undesired activation of thedevice, sensors monitoring the delivery of energy to the patient, orsensors for preventing overheating of the skin. A safety warningapparatus can be incorporated into the device to let the patient know ofan unsafe condition, and can include a flashing light, a flashingwarning, a sound warning beep, a picture, a vibration pattern, or wordsindicative of the potential for or existence of an unsafe condition.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand features have been described herein. It is to be understood that notnecessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with anyparticular embodiment. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carriedout in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group ofadvantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

While this disclosure has been described in connection with what arepresently considered to be practical embodiments, it will be appreciatedby those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes maybe made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Itwill also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts mixedwith one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one ormore parts from a depicted embodiment can be included with otherdepicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the variouscomponents described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may becombined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments. With respectto the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein,those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to thesingular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to thecontext and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations maybe expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

While the present disclosure has described certain exemplaryembodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limitedto the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to covervarious modifications and equivalent arrangements included within thescope of the appended claims, and equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A light therapy device for stimulating and/orpromoting eyelash growth, comprising: an energy transducer configured toprovide light energy at one or more wavelengths to an eyelash region ofan eyelid; and a scleral shield configured to block light energy towardthe eyeball; wherein when the eyelid is positioned between the energytransducer and the scleral shield, the energy transducer provides lightenergy at a first wavelength to the eyelash region suitable forstimulating and/or promoting eyelash hair growth, and the scleral shieldblocks and/or protects the eyeball from the light energy.
 2. The deviceof claim 1 wherein the first wavelength for eyelash hair growth iswithin a wavelength range of 450 nm-700 nm.
 3. The device of claim 1,wherein the energy transducer is further configured to provide lightenergy at a second wavelength to treat bacteria on the eyelid.
 4. Thedevice of claim 3 wherein the second wavelength is within a wavelengthrange of 400 nm-450 nm.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the energytransducer is further configured to provide light energy at a thirdwavelength to heat the eyelid and soften or melt meibum within meibomianglands.
 6. The device of claim 5 wherein the third wavelength is withina wavelength range of 700 nm-1000 nm.
 7. The device of claim 1, whereinthe scleral shield is made of, or coated with, a light energy blockingmaterial.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the energy transducercomprises at least one of an LED, laser, incandescent lamp, xenon lamp,halogen lamp, luminescent lamp, high-intensity discharge lamp, and gasdischarge lamp.
 9. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or morecomponents selected from the group consisting of: a display or dashboardconfigured to display the device status, a battery configured to powerthe device components, battery charging means, and a controller.
 10. Ahandheld light therapy device for stimulating and/or promoting eyelashgrowth, comprising: a housing; an energy transducer module positioned ata distal end of the housing, the energy transducer module beingconfigured to provide light energy at one or more wavelengths suitablefor stimulating and/or promoting eyelash hair growth to an eyelashregion of an eyelid; a power source module positioned within thehousing, the power source module being coupled to the energy transducermodule; a controller coupled to the power source module; a userinterface device coupled to the controller, the user interface devicebeing configured to provide user input to the controller to instruct thepower source module to deliver energy to or from the energy transducermodule; and a scleral shield configured to block light energy toward theeyeball being made of, or coated with, a light energy blocking material,the scleral shield being positioned between the energy transducer andthe eyeball; wherein when the eyelash region is positioned in a gapbetween the energy transducer and the scleral shield, the energytransducer is instructed to provide light energy at a first wavelengthto the eyelash region, and the scleral shield blocks and/or protects theeyeball from the light energy.
 11. The device of claim 10 wherein thefirst wavelength for eyelash hair growth is within a wavelength range of450 nm-700 nm.
 12. The device of claim 10, wherein the energy transduceris further configured to provide light energy at a second wavelength totreat bacteria on the eyelid.
 13. The device of claim 10, wherein theenergy transducer is further configured to provide light energy at athird wavelength to heat the eyelid and soften or melt meibum withinmeibomian glands.
 14. The device of claim 10, wherein interface deviceis selected from the group consisting of: a button, switch, touchscreen, voice commands, another module or device and a smartphone. 15.The device of claim 10, wherein the energy transducer comprises at leastone of an LED, laser, incandescent lamp, xenon lamp, halogen lamp,luminescent lamp, high-intensity discharge lamp, and gas discharge lamp.16. The device of claim 10, further comprising a safety featureelectrically coupled to the energy transducer prevents or interrupts thelight energy from occurring if the scleral shield is not in position toprotect the eyeball.